5 Designer-Approved Cozy Reading Corner Decorating Ideas

Clean lines, natural hues, and just a hint of drama define this cozy reading corner. The streamlined leather chair is the centerpiece. There’s nothing that calls your name more than a worn-in, luxurious leather chair. This one’s rich camel hue will only get better with age.

We topped the chair with a geometric pillow for just a hint of color; and of course for cuddling up with a good book or cup of tea. A rug under foot lends warmth.

The cone-slash-pyramid shape is repeated throughout the look—on the rug, side table, and light. Repetition is calming to a space, which is important in a cozy nook space.

Task lighting doesn’t have to be boring, and this light proves it. This sleek and somewhat glam light is just right.

If you’re looking for sharp contrast with a touch of comfort, this is the cozy reading nook for you. A plush black leather chair is paired with a white side table for a night-and-day contrast.

The leather chair is so plush, it’s perfect for sinking in—even without a pillow. The pin needle-thin legs contrast the overstuffed feel of the chair as does the super sleek, seemingly space-age side table.

A contemporary abstract rug gives the space much-needed warmth and a touch of calming blue. The floor lamp, excellent for a vignette that’s nuzzled up in a corner, repeats the thin legs of the chair and adds a new circular element to the design.

We envision this vignette perfect for sipping a martini or old fashioned after the kids are in bed, perhaps with a good book or just enjoying a silent house.

This understated look is one of our favorites for a few reasons. The first being we love an all-neutral monochromatic look; it’s so soothing in its simplicity. By layering in white and wood tones, we add depth to the monochromatic palette.

Our second “we love this look because” is the two-in-one lamp and light. We love pieces that are efficient and do double duty. The lamp portion has beautiful curvy lines and a chic linen shade, while the wood on the table pairs perfectly with the wood tones on the chair.

Finally, we love, love, love global patterns. A mudcloth-style print on the pillow pairs with an international geometric pattern on the rug, tying the space together perfectly.

Hang a piece of art or a photo from your travels on the wall and you’ve got a complete cozy reading corner that’s just right for quarantine.

Do you miss traveling and the sophisticated hotels you’d check into when you arrived at your destination? This reading nook vignette reminds us of those perfect hotels that make you feel at home from the moment you walk in the door.

Everything you see here has an infusion of mid-century modern style, but has been upgraded to live in today’s world.

Let’s start at the bottom and work our way up. The abstract rug in a calming and serene blue hue sets the stage for a chic and cozy space.

The lines of this gray upholstered chair are art-worthy. They draw the eye in and create a stunning focal point.

The brass foundation of the chair plays perfectly with the globe-shaped floor lamp—a standard of mid-century design.

Then the pair of sleek wood side tables lend warmth to the nook and allow for extra space to set down a drink, snack, or book.

Charming, serene, cozy. That’s really all we need in a cozy reading corner. We love the mix of new and old here: A traditional chair paired with a contemporary rug and side table create a look that says “I’m chic, now and forever.”

And yet, as stunning as the side elements are, your eyes are drawn to the chair, which is fit for a queen.

Imagine this look paired with a traditional-style landscape painting and a more contemporary sconce. It’s just perfect!